Paddle Your Way Through the Annual 2016 Manhasset Bay Kayak Run

The 12th annual Manhasset Bay Kayak Run returns this year on Saturday, July 23.

At the sound of cannon fire, participants will paddle around the bay.

Participants can use kayaks, paddle boards or canoes to navigate their way around the five mile course at their leisure, checking in at several checkpoints along the way.

The North Hempstead Bay Constable will be in the water for anyone in need of assistance.

The kayak run kicks off at 10 a.m. at Manorhaven Beach Park, located at 15 Manorhaven Boulevard, and ends at the Town Dock, located at 347 Main St.

Proceeds will benefit the Community Chest of Port Washington, the event host. The organization serves those in need in the Port Washington community. The Community Chest hopes to get more than 100 kayaks into the Manhasset Bay waters during this year’s event. The Town of North Hempstead will also serve as event host.

Event sponsor Atlantic Outfitters will provide kayak rentals for those who don’t have their own kayak.

For those without a kayak, or those who would like another, winners of a raffle drawing following the event will receive a kayak, as well as many other prizes. Those who stop at all the checkpoints along the course are entered into the raffle. The raffle drawing starts at 12:30 p.m.

Pre-event registration is a $25 donation for adults and $5 for kids. Entry forms can be found at West Marine, Community Chest and Atlantic Outfitters. Day-of registration is $45 for adults and $25 for kids.

For more information, contact the Town of North Hempstead at 311, the Community Chest at 516-767-2121 or Joel and Richard Maxted at [email protected] and [email protected].

Additional information can be found on the event’s Facebook page.

Image via TONH